chapter 23: The risks are worth the reward

"Wrong, the correct course of action would be to display some actual listening skills, acknowledging your friend's feelings, saying things like "I'm sorry to hear that" or "That sounds really tough." You could then ask open-ended questions to encourage your friend to talk about their feelings, and actively listen to their responses without interrupting or trying to offer solutions. It's also important to show support and offer to help in any way they can. Your incapability to display empathy and lack of emotional intelligence has cost you your advancement, please step back two tiles"

The Sphinx wagged its tail as if it finally found Markus's weakness and was quite proud of itself for finally stumping Markus.

""Now hold on just a second...""

Markus found this to be unfair and attempted to raise a logical objection.

"Step back two tiles mortal! No exceptions shall be made within the trial"